It's fairly common knowledge that medicines have side effects, especially with movements like the vaccine movement making sure you know about them. Even if the chances of getting those side effects are one in a million, or less. With prescribed medications however there are some fairly common side effects in almost every pill, liquid, or needle. Depression/anxiety, migraines, joint pain, soreness, fatigue, dizziness, weight loss/gain,and many others. The chance of getting these side effects are far and few between as said before. Most of them being irritations rather than fatal. Only those medications labeled by the FDA as black box medications have high fatal (or near fatal) side effects/risk. Thankfully black box medications are used only as a last resort, and only by those who are in unbearable amounts of pain.
But say you "experience" these side effects, how do you know they are just that; side effects? I experience many common side effects of medications on a daily basis, and that's without taking any medication. So being able to determine which side effects are from medications, and which are from just me can be a challenge. It can also be the determining factor between ER visits or just having a bad day. While some side effects are harmless, others show signs of serious diseases, organ failure, or other serious medical conditions that need attention ASAP. Having that baseline on a "normal" day of depression, anxiety, joint pain, migraines, and other pain in my body is extremely important for me. Especially when Doctor's press on my skin to see if I am sensitive to pain.
Ladies even knowing what a period cramp feels like is important! I suffer from PCOS or Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, so I have very severe cramps. Knowing the distinction between a "bad cramp" and a really bad stomache pain in the same area was really important for me a couple years ago. It was important because I had appendicitis, something that can kill you if it's not looked at. Thankfully I did know what pain was normal for me and rushed to the hospital.
People always tell you to keep a list of you medications and dosages with you, which is important. But having a pain baseline is also important is you have painful medical conditions. Especially if you are experimenting with new medications or under a lot of stress. Know you baseline, know your body, and don't be afraid to say "This isn't MY normal pain". Even if it doesn't make sense at first, stick to your guns and get your point across, Doctors and Nurses will listen to you, and they do want to help. (:
Below are some baseline questions that might help you if you are stuck in developing a baseline. Good luck, and be safe out there!
1. Does it hurt to breath? (Note: It shouldn't hurt to breath. Even if you have asthma, if your inhaler isn't working please go see a doctor. Breathing is important!)
2. Does this pain usually last this long?
3. Is the pain usually in this area?
4. Is the pain different? (i,e, Does it usually burn but is instead pulsating today?)
5. Is there a lump? Have I hit that spot recently?
6. Is my body trying to get rid of something? (i.e. vomitting, or other bodily movements)
7. Am I passing out, fatigued, or dizzy?
Please be aware that I am NOT a medical professional, if you have any doubts about your health please seek professional medical advise. If this is an emergency call 911 or your local emergency hotline.
Those are some pretty helpful baselines, and I think I'll put them in my phone in case I need them in the future. It sounds pretty crazy that you have to go through all of that on just a normal day. I can't say I know how you feel, because I rarely get any side effects from medicines. It's really good that you know your body well enough to distinguish the pain. A friend of mine had appendicitis and it's a really scary thing to go through. Stay healthy!
ReplyDeleteThank you for your positive comment. Appendicitis can be a very scary thing, especially if not treated right away.
DeleteCrazy has become a new normal, so it's alright haha. The most important thing to remember is that if you are ever unsure about something get it checked out. Better safe than sorry! (:
You stay healthy as well!